rapping

Rapping is a vocal technique consisting of rhymed, rhythmic speech delivered over a beat, often with emphasis on wordplay, storytelling, and social commentary. It is a core element of hip hop culture, alongside DJing, breakdancing, and graffiti.

Origins in the 1970s Bronx, drawing on African American oral traditions, Jamaican toasting, and genres such as funk, soul, and disco. MCs at block parties developed patterns of rhymes synchronized to breakbeats. Early pioneers include Kool Herc, Grandmaster Flash, and Afrika Bambaataa.

Techniques include flow, cadence, rhyme schemes (end rhymes and internal rhymes), multisyllabic rhymes, and rhythmic delivery. Breath control, improvisation, and writing influence performance. Production typically features beats created by DJs or producers, with sampling and looping.

Styles and formats vary from battlerap and party rap to conscious, gangsta, trap, and mumble rap. Freestyling vs. written verses, calls-and-responses, and choruses shape structure. Rapping often occurs alongside other hip hop elements such as scratching and DJ cuts.

Impact and reception: rap is globally influential, with diverse regional scenes and mainstream chart presence. Critics have raised concerns about violence and stereotypes, though many artists address social issues and storytelling. The digital era has changed distribution through streaming, collaboration, and social media.